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Description
Vaccinium Crassifolium, commonly known as Thick-leaved Blueberry, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. This plant is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. It can grow up to a height of 3-6 feet and a width of 3-5 feet, making it an excellent choice for small gardens or as a border plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Vaccinium |
Appearance
The leaves of Vaccinium Crassifolium are thick, leathery, and dark green in color. They are about 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit of the plant is a small blueberry that ripens in late summer to early fall. The blueberries are edible and have a sweet taste.
Care Guide
Vaccinium Crassifolium requires well-drained acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is consistently moist. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, and make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring, and reapply every six months. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vaccinium Crassifolium is susceptible to several pests, including spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control these diseases.
Habitat
Vaccinium Crassifolium is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. It grows in sandy or loamy soils in pine forests or along the edges of wetlands. The plant is an important food source for birds and other wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Vaccinium Crassifolium grow in full sun?
A: Yes, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: When does the plant produce fruit?
A: The plant produces fruit in late summer to early fall.
Q: What is the pH range for the soil?
A: The plant prefers well-drained acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Vaccinium Crassifolium?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, aphids, powdery mildew, and leaf spot are common pests and diseases in this plant.
Related Plants
- Vaccinium Ashei
- Vaccinium Corymbosum
- Vaccinium Macrocarpon
- Vaccinium Myrtillus
References
- “Vaccinium crassifolium,” Floridata, accessed July 14, 2021, https://floridata.com/plant/588.
- “Thick-leaved Blueberry,” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, accessed July 14, 2021, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=VACR2.
- “Vaccinium crassifolium,” University of Florida IFAS Extension, accessed July 14, 2021, https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fp551.
